Disney Having Trouble Casting Aladdin's Leading Roles

Disney’s Aladdin is one of the newest live action films coming to the big screen, but apparently there have been some behind-the-scenes problems with casting.

The two main leads, Aladdin and Jasmine, are reportedly proving difficult to cast for Disney, THR reports. According to the publication, 2,000 actors and actresses have read for the roles. The role of Aladdin, particularly, has proven challenging as they are looking for actors of Middle-Eastern or Indian descent who can act and sing, and producers are determined to do justice to the beloved character.

For the role of Jasmine, Disney is looking at Power Rangers actress Naomi Scott, 24, or Indian actress Tara Sutaria, 21. For Aladdin, producers have brought in Dutch actor Achraf Koutet, Canadian actor Mena Massoud and American George Kosturos, and more.

Shooting for the film was originally planned for July, but has been pushed back to August. Will Smith is set to play the iconic role of the Genie.